Accra has been unveiled as the host city for the maiden Africa Real Estate Festival (AREF) 2026, a continental platform aimed at promoting sustainable, people-centred urban development across Africa.
The festival was officially launched at a media event in Accra on Friday, January 16, 2026, bringing together government officials, diplomats, developers, investors, industry stakeholders, and the media to shape a new vision for Africa’s real estate sector.
Desmond Oteng, Founder and CEO of AREF, described the initiative as a movement designed to address Africa’s rapid urbanisation through intentional and inclusive city building. “Africa is urbanising faster than any other continent, yet our conversations still centre on buildings and prices rather than people, sustainability, and quality of life,” he said.
He explained that AREF seeks to reposition real estate as a catalyst for economic growth, climate responsibility, cultural identity, and inclusive development.
The maiden festival is scheduled for April 18–19, 2026, in Accra, with participation from policymakers, developers, investors, planners, prop-tech innovators, and diaspora stakeholders from across Africa and beyond.
International interest was highlighted by the presence of Barbados’ High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland, who announced her country’s participation and described AREF as a bridge between diplomacy, investment, and sustainable development.
From the government’s side, Mr. Agyemang of the Diaspora Affairs Office of the President noted that Ghana is shifting focus from remittances for consumption to structured diaspora investments in real estate and asset creation.
Organisers say AREF aims to influence policy dialogue, attract credible global capital, and promote responsible urban development as African cities confront unprecedented population growth.
READ ALSO:
- Two arrested over illegal tree cutting at Aburi Botanical Gardens
- Multimedia Group celebrates 31 years of God’s faithfulness and guidance with Thanksgiving Service[Photos]
- Choosing to move and adapt: How climate migration is reshaping culture
- Nobody would have known me without Joy FM – Reverend Sam Korankye Ankrah
